New NHS phone app launched in English and Polish

The new app uses a person's location to ascertain where the nearest medical services are

A phone app helping people to access the right local NHS service has launched in Berkshire in both English and Polish.

The free app was developed by Berkshire West Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs).

It uses someone’s current location to show the nearest pharmacy, dentist or GP, plus minor injury units, walk-in centres and A & E across West Berkshire, Reading and Wokingham. Where possible, the information provided will also include the range of treatments available and opening hours.

The app usefully offers advice on when to call NHS 111 and when to call 999, as well as notes and reminder sections to record appointments or symptoms.

Following a Healthwatch Reading report looking into how Reading’s Polish community accesses primary and urgent care services, the CCGs also launched the app in Polish.

The report, entitled ‘How the recent migrant Polish Community are accessing healthcare services, with a focus on primary and urgent care services’, highlighted the need for the local NHS to provide more written information in Polish about health services.

Both apps include links to websites offering health advice, such as NHS Choices, while the Polish version has information on the NHS and the benefits of registering with a GP.

Dr Andy Ciecierski, Reading GP and project board chair for NHS 111 Berkshire, said: “Whether you are new to the area or have lived here for a while, it’s not always obvious who you should turn to for help. This innovative app will avoid unnecessary delay or stress by helping you quickly find the right NHS service.”